New For 2015

It's about that time again - well, it's a little early, but it seems that every year things start to move earlier and earlier.

I love having a consolidated place to see what's new at the parks each year. Believe me when I say this is a labor of love.

This is the 4th such thread I've done here on URC, all of which have notched well over 300 responses so far. If any of these attractions deserve their own dedicated thread, by all means please start one!

So, as always, thanks to Screamscape, the news feeds on Facebook, RCDB, and those not-so-public sources that keep me in the loop.

And, also as always, please let me know if I miss something, or when new news is released.

And thank you for taking the time to put this thread together. We should all give you a shout out for all the work you do on here and with the connoisseur pages on Facebook. Labor of love of not, you do an excellent job. Really, thank you.

Is it too early to put something under Kings Dominion? I think we all agree something big is coming, coaster or not.

Grand Texas Theme Park
-- The Houston area should be receiving an amusement park again, this time north of the city. Renderings look fantastic, including a few new roller coasters - which will join the 'Confirmed' list when they're announced.

My gut is telling me this park won't open until 2016. But everything we've heard so far has been 2015. By the looks of things, that seems like a stretch...

Confirmed New Coasters For 2015

Miracle Strip Pier Park
--Star Liner, Well, we thought the 1963 John Allen classic would be getting a third lease on life, but it seems as if that is not the case. From what I understand, GCI is modifying the coaster to meet the new park's needs. Still a new wooden coaster, but not the classic.

Kentucky Kingdom
--T3, T2 becomes T3. The park has confirmed that T2 will reopen in 2015 as T3, with new trains and a new paint job.

Six Flags Magic Mountain
--Twisted Colossus, the iconic Colossus does indeed get its Iron Horse conversion, while at the same time changing from a racing coaster into a dual-lift single track coaster. 128 feet tall, over 5,000 feet long, with two inversions.

Six Flags New England
--Wicked Cyclone, the Cobb classic gets the RMC Iron Horse conversion as well, with a steeper drop and three inversions.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas
--Batman: The Ride, and odd choice of name, but the park is adding the new S&S 4-D free spin coaster to the Rockville section of the park. 120 feet tall, lots of flipping.

Lagoon
--Cannibal, 208 feet tall, 70 mph, 2,735 feet long, with a 116 degree first drop. Will feature a vertical lift, an indoor portion, water element, and a surprise element. Designed mostly in-house.

Cedar Point
--Rougarou, Mantis gets a paint job, new floorless sit-down trains, and a new theme.

Adventure Park USA (MD)
--Wild West Express, the small park will be home to the relocated Zamperla Windstorm roller coaster from Florida's Old Town.

ZDT Amusement Park
--Switchback, a new concept from The Gravity Group makes its way to the small Texas park in 2015.

Race City PCB
--[]Hurricane, the small FEC will receive Adventureland's (NY) former Hurricane coaster, manufactured by S.D.C.

Adventure City
--Rewind Racers, the small Anaheim park is adding a Gerstlauer family shuttle coaster.

Silver Dollar City
-- Fireman's Landing, a new themed area in the park, featuring 10 new attractions - most of which are geared toward younger guests. The S&S tower from Celebration City will find a home here as FireFall.

Delgrosso's Amusement ParkRock Star, the park is adding a new ARM flying carpet ride for 2015.

No 2015 Announcement To Date

At this stage in the game, any major addition to these parks is unlikely.

Michigan's Adventure
-- Last new coaster was the relocated Thunderhawk in 2008.

Sea World San Antonio, Orlando, San Diego
-- Sea World parks look to recover from down seasons.

Busch Gardens Tampa
-- Cheetah Hunt will be 4 years old in 2015 - keep an eye on 2016.

Kennywood
-- Sky Rocket will be 5 years old. I keep thinking/hearing that Kennywood is ready for a new coaster. Newer rumors had the car ride returning for 2015. But it seems the new attraction will be something under roof.

Silverwood
-- They've been in 'build' mode in recent years. Rumors point to a custom Rocky Mountain product coming to the park soon.

Indiana Beach
-- Something 'special' is planned for 2015, in the former Galaxi coaster's spot. Could be water slides, could be something else.

Other Parks...
-- Can't forget about the smaller parks that don't necessarily need to add to compete. Parks like Adventureland, Canobie, Clementon, Elitch Gardens, Magic Springs, and Seabreeze all seem to be up to yearly new attractions.

Stalled Projects

Cliff's Amusement Park
--Unknown, Cliff's was to have had Astroworld's Greezed Lightning (Schwarzkopf shuttle) opened at some point in 2014. But it didn't happen. There were rumors that this ride could end up back in Texas in 2016 or later. But now that seems unlikely. I don't know what's happening with it now.

Akita Retail and Events Center
-- A new Las Vegas Strip shopping center looks to be the new home of a re-worked Speed: The Ride. This was to be for 2014, but like almost everything else in Vegas, the project is stalled at this point. Track and supports are on site.

Morey's Piers
I heard a couple of years ago that 2015 was the goal for this thing. I didn't want to believe it then, I would have loved to have believed it at this point. It's not happening for this season. I don't know what else to call it, other than "stalled" at this point.

And thank you for taking the time to put this thread together. We should all give you a shout out for all the work you do on here and with the connoisseur pages on Facebook. Labor of love of not, you do an excellent job. Really, thank you.

Is it too early to put something under Kings Dominion? I think we all agree something big is coming, coaster or not.

Thanks Corey. I appreciate the kind words.

I'm torn on the Facebook thing. The groups have been a hit, and there is a lot of action there. But at the same time, I feel like I, among others, don't spend enough time here at URC as a result.

I know it's the off season, but I feel like I could spend more time here. I'm going to try to do that moving forward - as well as try and promote URC more on Facebook.

Eric has put together a fantastic coaster site over the years, and this forum has been like home to me for the better part of 16 years. I hope this place is around for at least another 16.

I 2nd on the wonderful lists you've posted these past years and enjoy reading all the possible news of new rides at specific parks.

I will admit i am more of a steel coaster fan, but I do hope BGW and SFGAdv both gets new wood coasters (hopefully a pair for each as racing or dueling). My idea for BGW (if they go with the spain theme) is the 'matador' with one side the man and the other the bull. Would be perfect for a dueling coaster. SFGAdv, I think they could be themed for 2 of batman's villains: Harley (red) and Poison Ivy (green).

KD, I'm not going to get too hyped up over that volcano rumor even though I have always thought the 2nd half could've done more with the layout. As for the supposed new ride, I still think replacing Hurler with a gci wood coaster (on the level of thunderhead or goldstriker) would be better. Maybe relocate Ricochet elsewhere and annex hypersonic's old station's land if they need the extra room.

BGT, i have my doubts they are going to keep gwazi especially now that they've seemingly pretty much abandoned the tiger side, so perhaps they can put a winged coaster in its place or even a hyper coaster if possible.

SWO, I know they sometimes hold concerts in that stadium (formerly a water ski/stunt show), but that area is just dead. Imo, a hyper coaster would be a perfect fit in that area. And if they have a height limit, maybe have the tracks dip below the lake like anaconda so the total drop can be over 200'. Call it the 'orca' and have it painted black and white. Finally, they really really need to update the wild artic simulator ride. Get some new video for it anything but the same old thing. I like rides, but it's gotten to the point i just skip it and go for the animal exhibits because I'm so bored with seeing the same vid. (At least Disney got it right with the new star tours by mixing up the possible outcomes).

Hem, that would be great if they had another coaster in that area so it isn't all just AC as the main draw. But otoh, it depends on what they are going to do with Gwazi. I think its time is coming: the all year op, the hot humid weather, ptc trains.. they've taken their toll. I think it might make more sense to build a new wood coaster over what was DF's land and reuse Gwazi's trains there than to sell them off to another park. That's why i could see the winged coaster going to bgt as replacing gwazi. And since it is two different experience riding each side of a winged coaster, I could see them keeping the Gwazi lion/tiger theme. Maybe either keep the name or add a 'son of' with it.

"Not that they're due, but I've heard that they had their eye on Smiler at Alton Towers - a wild rumor at this point."

Are they looking to buy the hunk of junk or build their own?

I can't say I've ridden many Gerstlauer coasters, if any, but with all the issues it's been having, I"m perplexed why MM would either want Alton Tower's or a version of their own at this point in time.

"Not that they're due, but I've heard that they had their eye on Smiler at Alton Towers - a wild rumor at this point."

Are they looking to buy the hunk of junk or build their own?

I can't say I've ridden many Gerstlauer coasters, if any, but with all the issues it's been having, I"m perplexed why MM would either want Alton Tower's or a version of their own at this point in time.

Well, they wouldn't take Alton Towers's. It's brand new. But I can think of a villain that would pair up nicely with a tangled ride like Smiler. From what I understand, the kinks were worked out on that ride by the end of the year.

I was also reminded that the park was looking at Rocky Mountain to re-do Colossus, which could work very well for them.

If Knoebels does something in 2015 expect it to open the summer of 2019 or 2020 after years of delays. As for Kennywood there has been much chatter around the Pittsburgh area of a possible large wooden coaster around the back area of the park. They also own the remaining land and valley behind the Racer, Jackrabbit. But it is Kennywood so nobody knows for sure. It was announced to
day that Johnnie Rockets will be opening up in the carousal restaurant building this summer.

The only stat stat I read was a 98 ft. height. Not sure exactly where I saw that, so I have no link, Sorry.

From Knoebels' Facebook account...

"You've seen the pictures, here's a little more info.The design incorporates approximately 1985 feet of track and an approximately 98 foot tall lift hill. 3 eight rider vehicles will achieve speeds of up to 56 mph. 90 degree free fall drop, cobra roll, loop, immelman, helix, airtime hills are all incorporated in the ride. Riders are seated in two rows of 4 facing forward with the back row seats elevated above the front row seats. Manufacturer Zierer. Bumper boats and boat tag will be removed to make space for the ride named Knoebels Impulse"

It will be interesting as to what kind of steel coaster that Lagoon is gonna get. With the Bat(SFC), Wild Mouse, Spider(spinning coaster), Jet Star 2 (S-kopf pseudo-family), Bombora(family coaster) and Puff the Little Fire Dragon(kiddie coaster), they definitely seem to be covered with family/kiddie coasters.

Then they have the old school & new school thrill looping coasters Colossus the Fire Dragon, and Wicked respectively. I wouldn't except some large capacity monster coaster like a Beemer there. An Eurofighter would be redundant, with Wicked(Zierer) already there. If I had to guess, I'm thinking maybe they would bring in some sort of shuttle coaster. This park is pretty steelie loaded as it is; Seems like they should have brought in another woodie (ala Renegade at Valleyfair) to accompany the old school Roller Coaster.

It will be interesting as to what kind of steel coaster that Lagoon is gonna get.

I've actually learned a lot about this ride over the past few weeks. It seems as if the park's head engineer is a former Arrow emplyee. He seems to have bypassed the whole design stage, and done it himself.

The park has piecemealed the entire project. They had the steel made by the company that made S&S's track. The trains are made by the company that makes them for Intamin, Zierer, and other German designers. They are claiming to be doing this all "in-house".

Other features will be a section of track that is either an elevator or a free-fall drop. The height is rumored to be in the 200 foot range. This ain't no kiddie ride!

Having said all of that, I would imagine the Intamins, Zierers, and Gerstlauers of the world aren't too happy that a park was able to simply "bypass" them, and buy the steel, trains, safety systems, etc on their own.

The way I see it, there are only two outcomes for this way of doing things. One, it works out great. Or two, it's a disaster, financial or otherwise.

^^^Thanks for the info Drach! Wow, this looks like one helluva project! So this will be Lagoon's second 'in house' coaster (Bombora is the 1st). Very very interesting project to say the least. With these in house additions, Lagoon has got that Disney status. :)

The New York Giants & New York Jets are no longer beefing with American Dream Meadowlands. Jersey's Advisor on Sports & Entertainment Projects said that he now anticipates that Triple Five(owner) "will commence construction almost immediately". It seems like 2015 should be a good finishing time frame for ADM, although who knows.

Action from Carowinds recently, with some public record renderings being released - all marked with the word "Approved".

Attached is a photo of the construction site.

It looks as if the new coaster will start over by Hurler and head over toward the front of the park. Based on the renderings and footers, it will big large, feature at least one tunnel, and have a turnaround similar to what Shambhala has over at Port Adventura.

Over at Silver Dollar City there is work going on behind Geyser Gulch- lots of land clearing and leveling. They haven't made any announcements yet as to what might be coming, but rumors are swirling, including anywhere from 2-5 new rides. I honestly don't know what is happening or coming- absolutely nothing has been announced or told to the employees, but various things I've heard:

Geyser Gulch looks like it might be closing at the beginning of August. Not sure if it's for remodel, removal, or just to keep clear during construction, but if it's for more than 2-3 rides...

Rides I've heard might be coming:
the double shot from Celebration City
return of the kids baloon ride
the carousel from Celebration City
another small roller coaster
something called FreeFall

the only ones I'm a bit more confident in are the first two at this point. The rest is all speculation and rumor. But should be interesting to see what it all turns out to be.

According to coasterradio(dot)com the latest rumor concerning Busch Garden Williamsburg's 2015 attraction is it will be a clone of Superman: Ultimate Flight(SFDK, which is a launched coaster) named 'Diablo'. That seems like a very weird fit for BGW for several reasons, mainly being it's capacity.

According to coasterradio(dot)com the latest rumor concerning Busch Garden Williamsburg's 2015 attraction is it will be a clone of Superman: Ultimate Flight(SFDK, which is a launched coaster) named 'Diablo'. That seems like a very weird fit for BGW for several reasons, mainly being it's capacity.

According to coasterradio(dot)com the latest rumor concerning Busch Garden Williamsburg's 2015 attraction is it will be a clone of Superman: Ultimate Flight(SFDK, which is a launched coaster) named 'Diablo'. That seems like a very weird fit for BGW for several reasons, mainly being it's capacity.

I file that into my "I'll believe it when I see it" category...

I believe I have a file EXACTLY like that. Other than kiddie rides, when is the last time BGE installed a clone of ANYTHING?

I'm not saying that that this is false, but it will be a sad day when BGE is so hard up for a major coaster that they decide to resort to an off the shelf, low capacity, clone.

According to coasterradio(dot)com the latest rumor concerning Busch Garden Williamsburg's 2015 attraction is it will be a clone of Superman: Ultimate Flight(SFDK, which is a launched coaster) named 'Diablo'. That seems like a very weird fit for BGW for several reasons, mainly being it's capacity.

Well... it would seem that this IS happening. I'm a little suprised... to say the least.

^^^I take it that Impulse's special track elements are gonna be a vertical lift, an immelmann turn, and a 540 degree helix, while the inversions are gonna be a cobra roll, a vertical loop, and an inline twist.

According to SS, Holiday World is doing some tree-clearing to make room for a rumored 2015 steel coaster.

If I had to made a speculating guess, I'll narrow HWs selection to either some kinda family coaster, or an Eurofighter. Both would great fit as both are what HW is lacking (larger than Howler family coaster, or steel looper).

According to SS, Holiday World is doing some tree-clearing to make room for a rumored 2015 steel coaster.

If I had to made a speculating guess, I'll narrow HWs selection to either some kinda family coaster, or an Eurofighter. Both would great fit as both are what HW is lacking (larger than Howler family coaster, or steel looper).

I used to think that Holiday World would get the first U.S. mega-lite from Intamin. Doubtful now...

I hope they get a Mack launcher, like Helix at Liseberg. That thing looks incredible. Then again, part of me also wants to see them stick to wooden coasters...

Anyone see any news on the new coaster at Carowinds? I'm itching to see news on it. Saw a lot of rumors and talk on CarowindsConnection. A nice little dedicated bunch over there lol. I read through like 40 pages of speculation (over a few days), and I must admit, it was quite fun.

According to SS, Holiday World is doing some tree-clearing to make room for a rumored 2015 steel coaster.

If I had to made a speculating guess, I'll narrow HWs selection to either some kinda family coaster, or an Eurofighter. Both would great fit as both are what HW is lacking (larger than Howler family coaster, or steel looper).

I used to think that Holiday World would get the first U.S. mega-lite from Intamin. Doubtful now...

I hope they get a Mack launcher, like Helix at Liseberg. That thing looks incredible. Then again, part of me also wants to see them stick to wooden coasters...

So not thinking Holiday will go BIG?? I actually changed my trip plans this summer because I see they are clearing land for a new ride next year. I will wait till 2015 to hit Holiday World again. Now I am going to be able to make it up to Six Flags Great America in July for Goliath!! Holiday World usually goes BIG and breaks some kind of record!!

So not thinking Holiday will go BIG?? I actually changed my trip plans this summer because I see they are clearing land for a new ride next year. I will wait till 2015 to hit Holiday World again. Now I am going to be able to make it up to Six Flags Great America in July for Goliath!! Holiday World usually goes BIG and breaks some kind of record!!

Big in what sense? I think a ride like Helix would be big for them. I don't see them adding a 200 footer or anything from B&M either.

Mack seems to be offering a pretty good bang for your buck. And they have a spotless safety record, with good reliability.

I would expect to see a number of Macks and Premier steel coasters popping up over the next few years.

I'm curious if Kings Dominion will let the cat out of the bag at their 40th this weekend. I'll be in attendance, as will a lot of other enthusiasts, so I wonder if they will hint at their 2015 plans even if they don't want to prematurely formally announce it.

Just read on Facebook that Hershey's 2015 project will cost 21 million dollars. The park plans an official announcement later this summer.

HP's official FB page says nothing of the sorts on it. Do you have a source?

And what could it be for $21 million... a B&M wing coaster? They've been going to Intamin quite a bit over the past decade.

Joe
Great_Ump

I did more research after I posted this. The 21 million dollar project will be a realignment of a road and the 31 acre expansion. The park is supposed to announce, later in the year, their plans for that new 31 acres. My source is coasterforce.com and pennlive.com.

Sea World Parks and Entertainment (which owns the Busch Parks) filed a new trademark for "Tempesto". Could this be the future name of BGW's new Superman:UF(SFDK) coaster AKA (Diavolo)?

I'm still not digging BGW's coaster choice, and Diavolo IMO has more flare to it than Tempesto, as it sounds too much like an Italian sauce. Best case scenario, BGW themes the hell out of this new coaster so it doesn't have a plain Six Flags look to it.

Sea World Parks and Entertainment (which owns the Busch Parks) filed a new trademark for "Tempesto". Could this be the future name of BGW's new Superman:UF(SFDK) coaster AKA (Diavolo)?

I'm still not digging BGW's coaster choice, and Diavolo IMO has more flare to it than Tempesto, as it sounds too much like an Italian sauce. Best case scenario, BGW themes the hell out of this new coaster so it doesn't have a plain Six Flags look to it.

The thought of them building a clone at a BG park is so disappointing to me still that i cant stop thinking about especially with the capacity problem.My only thought to fix this issue.With SUFDK being only 6mil, could there be any possibility of them building two of these? im assuming BG has the money, i just dont know enough about bgw to know if there's the space or if that's feasible with a ride like that. apologies if this is an awful first post.

^^^Welcome aboard. You brought out some very good points. I agree that this coaster's capacity will be a nightmare, and I very puzzled with this choice of coaster at BGW. A 'twin coaster' scenario is highly unlikely, as that would most certainly require queue space on the other side of Apollo's lift hill.

Riverside Cyclone will be closing for good on July 20th. Iron Cyclone?

Man, they couldn't of waited for another 3 week's. We are headed up that way after July 4th sometime for a coaster trip, and SF New England is on our agenda. Last time I was there Cyclone was down, so I never will get to ride it now. It will be interesting to see if they put something in that makes me go back next year. We've had these plans for about 9 months, so we are still going to visit this year. It seems every year I'll visit a park far from home, then the next year they put a new coaster in. Does anyone know when they announce their future plans?

Wait a minute, I don't know what I was thinking. If everything goes to plan, we will be at SF New England on July 11th, so we should get to ride it.

I'm still holding out hope that we have the BGW coaster wrong. I realize folks have been doing hard work to try and determine the ride, but i'm just holding out until it's confirmed. I guess they figure with Apollo's right there the capacity won't be as big an issue. Either way, it would be pretty disappointing if it's ends up being true.

"There’s a new attraction coming to Hersheypark next summer! Stay tuned every Tuesday until our unveil August 12 for clues about this exciting addition. Also, register for a chance to win a 2015 Season Pass and be one of the first to ride the new attraction!"

"A rep from Hersheypark came to the office today to tease the park's new-for-2015 attraction. She brought the card you see here along with a candy apple and a bag of popcorn."

Carowinds has some action too...

Also, Holiday World is counting down. They are two weeks away from an announcement.

Six Flags announcement day is August 28th.

Skyline Attractions (the GCI offshoot/partner) is announcing a new attraction with a park on August 1st.

Cedar Point is reportedly getting a new "thrill ride" for the teenage/adult crowd.

Grand Texas Theme Park
-- The Houston area should be receiving an amusement park again, this time north of the city. Renderings look fantastic, including a few new roller coasters - which will join the 'Confirmed' list when they're announced.

My gut is telling me this park won't open until 2016. But everything we've heard so far has been 2015. By the looks of things, that seems like a stretch...

Continued Recovery In 2015

Casino Pier
--Double Shot, an S&S tower will find a home in Seaside Heights in 2015.

Confirmed New Coasters For 2015

Miracle Strip Pier Park
--Star Liner, Well, we thought the 1963 John Allen classic would be getting a third lease on life, but it seems as if that is not the case. From what I understand, GCI is modifying the coaster to meet the new park's needs. Still a new wooden coaster, but not the classic.

Kentucky Kingdom
--T3, T2 becomes T3. The park has confirmed that T2 will reopen in 2015 as T3. I wonder what the added exponent is for...

Adventureland(Long Island)
--Unnamed, the small park is adding a Mack spinning coaster.

Other New Attractions for 2015

Idlewild
--Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, the long-running Mr. Rogers ride has ended its run. It will be replaced with a similar attraction, but themed to Mr. Rogers's animated "successor".

Semi-Confirmed New Coasters For 2015

Carowinds
--unknown, I guess we're just waiting for an announcement from the park. Plans have been approved for a BIG steel coaster at the front of the park.

Lagoon
--unknown, Construction is well underway, and maroon track is on site and vertical. Aside from that, not much is known.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg
-- Plans and municipal approvals are out there for a Premier launched looping coaster (aka SFDK Superman). Surprising for this park, but it seems to be legit.

Holiday World
-- Word is that a steel coaster was on their agenda, and Voyage will be 9 years old! Pilgrim's Plunge has been removed and there is some significant land clearing going on in the woods and next to Voyage. A new website has been created, counting down (with clues) to an announcement in July.

Six Flags Magic Mountain
-- Banners have been hung around the park, stating that Colossus will close August 16th for good. This lines right up with the rumors that the park is looking at a Rocky Mountain conversion of racing coaster.

Six Flags New England
-- The park has announced that the infamous Cyclone will close for good on July 20th. If Six Flags holds true to form, it looks like we could see yet another wooden coaster turn to steel, courtesy of Rocky Mountain Construction.

Rumors Swirlin'

Hersheypark
-- Survey markers have been spotted in the Midway America area.

Kings Dominion
-- Rumors of a new coaster for 2015 have been circulating for a while now.

Darien Lake
-- Lake Monster, the revamped Predator, could be in the works for 2015.

Silverwood
-- They've been in 'build' mode in recent years. Rumors point to a custom Rocky Mountain product coming to the park soon.

Six Flags Over Texas
-- They will be 4 years removed from New Texas Giant. Construction walls are up, with a sign that says a major attraction is on its way for 2015.

Adventureland
-- The Iowa park is hinting at a major announcement coming soon.

Cedar Fair Parks That Could Be 'Due'

Dorney Park
-- No truly 'new' coasters since Hydra in 2005. Logic would lead us to assume that they would be the next Cedar Fair park to get a wooden coaster. They certainly could use one.

Valleyfair
-- Last new coaster was Renegade in 2007.

Michigan's Adventure
-- Last new coaster was the relocated Thunderhawk in 2008.

Worlds of Fun
-- Prowler will be 6 years old in 2015.

Cedar Point
-- I'm thinking large family dark ride for 2015.

Six Flags Parks That Could Be 'Due'

Over Georgia
-- They'll be 4 years removed from Dare Devil Dive.

Great Adventure
-- The relocated Green Lantern will be 4 years old, and they just freed up a lot of land with Rolling Thunder's removal.

Great Escape
-- Canyon Blaster was their last major ride, which was a relocation.

La Ronde
-- Ednor, the relocated SLC, will be 5 years old. Could they be up for new coaster?

Blackstone Parks That Could Be 'Due'

Sea World San Antonio
-- Their last 'coaster' was Atlantis, in 2007. Are they interested in keeping pace with Fiesta Texas?

Busch Gardens Tampa
-- Sure they just opened a drop tower, but Cheetah Hunt will be 4 years old in 2015.

Sea World Orlando
-- With Turtle Trek and Antarctica up and running, and with Manta being 6 years old next year, are they up for a new coaster?

Palace Parks That Could Be 'Due'

Lake Compounce
-- Boulder Dash was actually their last coaster - in 2000.

Kennywood
-- Sky Rocket will be 5 years old. I keep thinking/hearing that Kennywood is ready for a new coaster.

Dutch Wonderland
-- Wild rumor at this point. But Story Land (another Palace children's park) built Roar-a-saurus in 2014. Could Dutch become the home of a similar ride in 2015, in the vacated turnpike area?

Other Parks Who Haven't Built In a While

Indiana Beach
-- Something 'special' is planned for 2015, in the former Galaxi coaster's spot. Could be water slides, could be a coaster. Steel Hawg will be 7 years old in 2015.

Other Parks...
-- Can't forget about the smaller parks that don't necessarily need to add to compete. Parks like Adventureland, Beech Bend, Canobie, Clementon, Elitch Gardens, Idlewild, Magic Springs, Mount Olympus, Seabreeze, Wild Adventures, and Wild Waves all seem to be up to yearly new attractions.

Stalled Projects

Cliff's Amusement Park
--Unknown, Cliff's was to have had Astroworld's Greezed Lightning (Schwarzkopf shuttle) opened at some point in 2014. But it didn't happen. There were rumors that this ride could end up back in Texas in 2016 or later. Don't know what's happening with it now.

Akita Retail and Events Center
-- A new Las Vegas Strip shopping center looks to be the new home of a re-worked Speed: The Ride. This was to be for 2014, but like almost everything else in Vegas, the project is stalled at this point. Track and supports are on site.

Morey's Piers
I heard a couple of years ago that 2015 was the goal for this thing. I didn't want to believe it then, I would LOVE to believe it now! I don't know what else to call it, other than "stalled" at this point.

Updated 27 June 2014

About the semi-confirmed status of the Six Flags New England Psyclone/Iron Cyclone, unfortunately from what I've heard the park has no plans to replace it (at least, not in the near future; they may add another coaster in a few years). Everybody I've heard from who works in the park and has some insight as to what's going on tells me that they've just gotten tired of having to replace the tracks every few seasons while the money would be put to better use elsewhere. So, I'm sorry to say that Psyclone won't be making a comeback for 2015.

I thought B&M liked to deny their involvement with Hulk by always pointing out that another company did the launch due to their early hatred for LIM technology.

I'm interested to see how well they implement it as I consider Premier and MACK to be the top dogs when it comes to LIM & LSM, respectively, with the others (Zierer, Gerstlauer, Mauer, etc.) trailing slightly behind.

beastmaster said:Somehow I thought you'd been there. Lemme know if you do plan it. Get to GrAdv on the same jaunt, man!

Thanks, Mike. I think I must be the one guy here who has never been there. I had hoped to visit many of the PA parks in the 90's when my sons were young (and so was I) but it never happened. Last park trek we made was Waldameer in 2010, which we thoroughly enjoyed, but since then I just don't have the stamina anymore. So it's looking like I'll probably never see Hershey, Kenneywood or Knoebels.

OTOH we'll probably be spending a lot of time bench warming in Tampa and Orlando, so it's a little bit of give and take. We'll have to get in one last trip to HW for Thunderbird before moving south permanently.

Some info concerning Tempesto/Diavolo/Whatever the name has came out. It's expected to have one three train car, in contrast to SFDK's Superman which only has two trains. Still a far cry from a capacity machine with just eighteen riders per cycle. The theming of the coaster is going to be the form of a 'stunt bike carnival atmosphere' *shudders*

I didn't get a chance to critique Thunderbird yet. I love everything about the layout, expect I think that second overbanked turn (elevated spiral) could have easily been turned into a more exciting dive loop. It's still a great unique addition to HW.

I'm confused on this one. Cyclone's track has been carefully ripped up and nothing else. The station has been tested with new paint colors.

SFOT is really confusing too. Work behind Adventure Theater has led me to believe a Dark Ride will come in place but these hints are as weird as it comes. Especially since SFOT recognized two coaster groups in small print in one of their hints.

According to Hersheypark's facebook fan page, the 2015 attraction is gonna be "Laff Trakk, the country's first spinning glow coaster". The new enclosed Laff Trakk, the parks '13th' coaster is gonna have an 'old laugh house theme'. I can't wait to hear more info!

I think it looks fun. Kinda psychedelic. If it's half as much fun as Exterminator, mentioned above, I think it'll be a winner. Doesn't look like I'll make it to Hershey this year, so it's a appetite-whetter for 2015.

Mike

The amusement park rises bold and stark
Kids are huddled on the beach in a mist...

I'm with Mike. I think it looks pretty fun, though I think the park missed the mark on a few aspects.

They selected an off-the-shelf model from Maurer-Sohne. They could have gone custom, and incorporated some really neat elements that the manufacturer now offers.

There is a "hinged track" option, "drop track" option, and a "see-saw" track option - any of which would have been PERFECT for this indoor fun-house theme.

The manufacturer also offers a tilting elevator lift, which probably won't be used here, as again, it's an off-the-shelf model.

I hope they employ fun house sounds throughout, as well as gusts of air and the like. As far as effects go, I like them. I only wish the barrel or tunnel portion was of the rotating variety.

Otherwise, it looks pretty good, and the park is finally getting the spinning coaster AND the indoor coaster they've long wanted, but doing it in one shot. I'm sure this one will remain open during the Christmas season.

Just wanted to mention that Canada's Wonderland (via e-mail newsletter) confirmed an expansion to the waterpark area.

New for 2015!

There's even more splash-tacular fun coming to our 20-acre water park! Typhoon, a thrilling new water slide featuring oscillating funnels and hairpin turns. For those looking for less thrills and more water, check out Splash Station, a wet and wild interactive children's play area. Come join the fun with a 2015 Season Pass and experience over 200 rides, shows, and attractions including our newest Typhoon and Splash Station!

I'm betting if they go with the every 4 years plan for big coasters the next one should be in 2017 and then that will set-up nicely for a 40th anniversary ride in 2021.

Dorney Park will be making an annoucement tomorrow morning (8/15/14) from Thunderhawk's loading platform. The only clue thus far are all of these clown stickers that are all over the park and an image of what looks to be a new version of the old "Alfundo" clown.

I'm intrigued. Alfundo used to be on the roof of the old bumper car building that sat on top of Thunderhawks station turn - creating a tunnel for the beginning of the ride.

I knew that it was getting the RMC treatment. I didn't make that clear.

Silver Dollar City announced today. 80ft S&S Drop Ride comes with the addition. Pretty cool. I personally think S&S has better drop rides than any other company.

SDC also announced a whole new area Fireman themed with 10 New attractions. Most are kids rides, but the whole area looks to be really nice.

6 rides, plus foam ball playhouse, smaller one for toddlers, kids maze and splash zone make up the 10. Rides include a crazy bus, frog hopper, elephants (done as dalmations), kiddie swing, baloon ride and the S&S Double Shot. 3 of the rides are from Celebration city. 2 are ones that used to be in the park. not sure where the dalmations are from.

Bigger news to me and many of the other employees- the Harlem Globetrotters will also be performing at SDC for 6 weeks next summer, 6 days a week with multiple shows each day.

SFOT accidentally leaked their 2015 attraction when I was at the park yesterday. They were advertising deals on 2015 Season Passes coming on sale this Fright Fest and that we would get to experience the all new Justice League: something something (I was too excited to pay attention to that part) Dark Ride for 2015.

I'm not even joking. Not only I heard it, but the people I was with heard it.

SFOT accidentally leaked their 2015 attraction when I was at the park yesterday. They were advertising deals on 2015 Season Passes coming on sale this Fright Fest and that we would get to experience the all new Justice League: something something (I was too excited to pay attention to that part) Dark Ride for 2015.

I'm not even joking. Not only I heard it, but the people I was with heard it.

I've heard that as well. I've also heard that the dark ride isn't the only thing they're doing next year...

Dorney Park will be making an annoucement tomorrow morning (8/15/14) from Thunderhawk's loading platform. The only clue thus far are all of these clown stickers that are all over the park and an image of what looks to be a new version of the old "Alfundo" clown.

False alarm for now on Dorney. But it's a nice tribute that will sit inside Thunderhawk's station.

Six Flags Great Adventure twitter page released their 2nd teaser today. It is more telling then their first one. Both teasers have a dragon theme, and can point to a roller coaster possibly. What seems definite from the 2nd teaser is that Batman will go backwards next year. We'll find out soon enough. Some people think Wing Coaster.

Less than an hour (11:00 AM) to go concerning Carowinds 'Intimidator 325' announcement. Like I said before, I'm not wild about this whole 'two B&M hypers' thing that Cedar Fair parks are doing, as I would prefer an unique and less costly coaster addition(s), not just something taller, but apparently it's currently all the rage for CF. A dive machine, PLUS a RMC woodie would cost less than I-325.

Given that it's basically a certainty that Carowinds will get a 325ft B&M hyper, I hope that they go with the 'Centurion' name which has a good Roman theme, opposed to the very generic 'Fury 325' name.

Slide complex and splash zone among new additions to Virginia’s premier water park

DOSWELL, VA (August 21, 2014) – Kings Dominion is adding a splash to its 40th anniversary celebration with a major expansion to its 20-acre water park, WaterWorks. The newly expanded water park will open to the public in the spring of 2015.

In addition to the water slides, rides and wave pool that have been a part of WaterWorks, the new expansion features elements that spell fun for the whole family including a mega water slide complex, a family-friendly splash zone, expanded cabana accommodations and amenities that will enhance the overall water park experience for guests.

The 65-foot tall slide complex features three thrilling new attractions. On Paradise Plunge, thrill-seekers will step into one of three chambers and wait anxiously for the floor to drop out from underneath their feet, sending them in a high-speed, almost vertical free fall through a series of loops and s-curves in a translucent flume. Aqua Blast will send riders twisting and spiraling through an enclosed chute featuring four intense 360-degree loops across 449 feet of slide before they’re dropped out into a pool of water. A wet and wild adventure will await guests on Thunder Falls as they climb into a single or double raft before being launched down a series of intense drops and turns.

Splash Island will be a space geared toward younger guests and their parents and will double the current size of the children’s options available in WaterWorks. Features include small slides designed for young children and multiple jets of streaming water that spray up from the ground, as well as overhead. Little ones can let their imaginations run wild as they get soaked underneath large cascading flowers, take a trip down a slide, or pump and direct water that shoots out from one of the many splash pad creatures.

Splash Island will also offer options for parents and family members looking to relax and soak up the sun in the adjacent lounge area while they watch the children play.

In addition to expanded pool-side cabanas, upgraded bath houses and additional restrooms are also part of the water park expansion plans.

“This major expansion to WaterWorks will allow family members of all generations to experience water park fun together with our new splash zone,” Kings Dominion’s vice-president and general manager Pat Jones said. “We are keeping with our traditions of providing entertainment and fun to all ages. We chose this six-slide complex to give our thrill-seeking guests a completely new water slide experience and Splash Island to provide a relaxing environment for more family fun.”

WaterWorks will continue to be available at no extra charge for Kings Dominion visitors. “We’re happy to offer two parks for the price of one,” says Jones. “The improved look and feel of WaterWorks will add to our guest’s experience. We can’t wait to share that with them.”

Guests who want to be among the first to experience the exciting new additions to Kings Dominion’s water park can purchase a 2015 Season Pass now at the absolute lowest price online at kingsdominion.com or at the park during public operating days through November 3.

Kings Dominion is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company, a publicly traded partnership that is listed for trading on The New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FUN.” In addition to Kings Dominion, Cedar Fair also owns and operates ten other amusement parks, four water parks, one indoor water park, and five hotels. Cedar Fair also operates the Gilroy Gardens Theme Park in California under a management contract.

Well, the Carowinds coaster name is 'Fury 325'. I should have known it was gonna be that, when I saw that Charlotte Hornet-esque theme that will be popular in Carolina. TBH, the name sounds more like a flatride than a coaster. The theme looks kinda out of place, with the Hornet & Fury, whatever...Regardless of the name, I'm sure that Carowinds fans will definitely be lovin' this 300 footer. That color scheme is awesome BTW with the 'extreme green' on the bottom of the coaster-track spine.

Kansas City, MO: Worlds of Fun will provide another splash to its Oceans of Fun waterpark with the addition of Splash Island. The 4200-square-foot interactive water attraction opens in the spring of 2015 on Memorial Day weekend and spells fun for the whole family.

"It's exciting to add an attraction for a third straight season," Worlds of Fun vice-president and general manager Frank Wilburn said. "We've seen many successes combining Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun into one park for one price, and with our guests looking for more activities that could be shared by the whole family we've addressed those desires in a major way."

Splash Island will be the perfect place for families to relax and soak up the sun as water jets shoot up from the ground, cascade through the air and gush from tulips, flowers, frogs, and turtles. The attraction will be located near Coconut Cove.

Guests have long enjoyed the kayaks and canoes on the Buccaneer Bay. Next summer, guests will glide across the water in swan shaped paddle boats. "The swan paddle boats will provide our guests with another layer of unique experience and continue to add value to the overall guest experience at Worlds of Fun," Wilburn said.

"Situated on 17.5 acres, we have room to expand! Did you hear what we are adding next??"

Tease... but very cool news. I've never been, and I've already ridden the Wildcat (which is great) at William's Grove. Maybe I'll have to check it out next year.

Erik Stottlemyer, one of the owners is a great guy, down to earth and really loves restoring rollercoasters. He has done magnificent work on restoring it after he bought it from Williams Grove.

He has managed to make the ride run faster than comparable models and has rebuilt many of the cars with newer components ensuring this Schwarzkopf lasts. He even has one of the original cars in his possession that he plans on fully restoring and possibly put on display for people to view.

He regularly lets enthusiasts tour his workshop full of artifacts and new ideas he has, as well as tour the backside of Wildcat. I have some great shots of the chain and motor house in action from a few feet away.

There are some other grand plans down the line that I'm also not allowed to divulge in, however, give it a year or two and it'll be worth visiting if you're passing by. It has the potential to be the goto spot in Maryland for its target demographic, families with young children and young teenagers.

so no Batman Backwards at great adventure? Instead we get this looping ride. I'd be ok with it if we got batman backwards and maybe a cool water ride in HH.

Instead just the looping dragon and a new grill at HH. Thats weak.

I still think we'll get Namtab. The backwards versions that have already happened were announced DURING the season, or at least not with the "major announcement"...if I recall correctly (not a given.) I'd look forward to that a hella lot more than this Pooping Dragon.

Mike

The amusement park rises bold and stark
Kids are huddled on the beach in a mist...

Twisted Colossus looks awesome. However the thought of inversions from one track flying over another track instantly reminds me; All it takes is some dumb mischievous kid to discreetly throw something from one train to another, someone gets hurt, and now we have a 'Staggered Dragons' situation all over again.

Sadly I'm pessimistic when it comes to everyone doing the right thing in general. There's always that one idiot that messes it up for everyone. I hope that nothing like that will happen, but I can't say that I'll be surprised if it does.

^^^Definitely sounds like the rumored Mantis 'floorless or sitdown' conversion is coming to fruition.

Sounds more like it's coming out...

Says GM Jason McClure... “It’s time to say goodbye to one of the park’s coasters, and it’s certainly been a different kind of ride for our guests,” said Jason McClure, vice president and general manager of Cedar Point. “But we’re extremely excited about what the future holds here at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World™.”

Dorney's GM also tweeted shortly after the "announcement" that "DPStandsUPwithCP"

^^^Definitely sounds like the rumored Mantis 'floorless or sitdown' conversion is coming to fruition.

Sounds more like it's coming out...

Says GM Jason McClure... “It’s time to say goodbye to one of the park’s coasters, and it’s certainly been a different kind of ride for our guests,” said Jason McClure, vice president and general manager of Cedar Point. “But we’re extremely excited about what the future holds here at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World™.”

Dorney's GM also tweeted shortly after the "announcement" that "DPStandsUPwithCP"

More to come...

It'll be the only stand-up in PA, as far as I know. Seems like a good marketing standpoint for Dorney. It'll be nice to ride it again as I was pelted in the face by rain on my last ride. I thought it had a great layout and prefer it over GL next door.

Is it me or has this been the most underwhelming when it comes to next year's announcements? Sure, I do like the looks of Fury 325 and Thunderbird but I've been quite disappointed in what has been revealed so far.

I know not everyone can put in a multi-million dollar roller coaster every year but some of the choices being made, especially for Six Flags, makes you want to say WTF.

How can I not be excited about the RMC makeover of Colossus and SFNE Cyclone? Easy - the novelty of Six Flags turning their mediocre woodies into steel inverting coasters has worn off. If Outlaw Run and Goliath can do these fancy-schmancy maneuvers as wood coasters then I can't see why they couldn't have just left these two as wood coasters.

I wish I could agree with you, but for me the "novelty" of a good coaster being announced will never wear off. Personally I don't thing of I-Box coasters as anything but new rides. The old ones they replace are dead and gone, thank God.

Is it me or has this been the most underwhelming when it comes to next year's announcements? Sure, I do like the looks of Fury 325 and Thunderbird but I've been quite disappointed in what has been revealed so far.

I know not everyone can put in a multi-million dollar roller coaster every year but some of the choices being made, especially for Six Flags, makes you want to say WTF.

G-Dog

I hear what you're saying. I think Thunderbird and Fury look incredible, especially Fury. I'm really excited for Knoebels' Impulse - but that may be because I'm a Knoebels addict...

I have no opinion either way regarding the RMC Iron Horse coasters, as I have yet to experience one. It looks like my first will be SFNE's Cyclone next season.

I may feel differently then, but at this point, I don't care to see wooden coasters converted to steel rides, as poor as the wooden coasters are and as good as the new steel rides become.

I totally get it from a business standpoint, but the traditional fan in me would rather see more wood than steel.

As far as announcements go, my thought is to give Cedar Point and Lagoon time to make a splash.

The only way that I'll be against the RMC-facation of woodies if the woodie was actually worthwhile, which doesn't necessarily mean I have to be love with an unchanged woodie.

I never was that wild about Great American Scream Machine(SFOG); Would I want to see GASM changed to a RMC coaster? No. How about a god-awful rough woodie like Hurler(either park) Georgia Cyclone, Mean Streak or Hoosier Hurricane? Absolutely! I never thought that Colossus was that bad, but I can see why it basically became an afterthought in SFMM.

I'm in the camp of not keeping an unpopular rough woodie from getting RMC treatment only for the sake of tradition.

^ I have to agree. Revoke my enthusiast card if you'd like, but I like to ride good coasters, not museum pieces.

I certainly don't want every traditional wooden coaster to be in danger of the "transformation", but I also don't stand around admiring crappy wooden coasters either. Wouldn't it be awesome if SF and CF could take better care of their wooden coasters from the get go, and I also wish my San Francisco 49ers could win the Super Bowl too!

Reality is, it's not going to happen. So I'm not going to be bitter about the fact that Six Flags has found a way to revitalize otherwise bulldoze(able) coasters into the top 10.

Drachen, first I forgot to mention in my earlier post that I really enjoy your listings every year. Thanks for doing that.

Just to somewhat clarify I'm not against RMC doing their magic on older wood coasters to bring some vitality back to them but I feel that they could make these alterations and still keep it a wooden coaster. RMC has proved that with their original designs.

I have yet to ride an RMC and from what I've read regarding Goliath is that it's very smooth. Call me old-fashioned, or just plain old, but I expect to be jostled around a bit on a wood coaster. Has today's generation become a bit "soft" that they can't handle that?

Yes, there are plenty of coasters that deserve RMC's touch, Mean Streak and Georgia Cyclone come to mind, but it somewhat bothers me that, based on other forums, people are quick to want RMC to come in and change their home park's wooden coasters, with SFStL's Boss usually among the most listed.

Since we've seen RMC turn wood coasters to steel let's see them turn a steel coaster into a woodie - Gemini anyone?

^ Fair enough. I'd also like to see that. Case in point, Ghostrider. My fantasy is to have RMC come in and rebuild parts of Ghostrider complete with new trains, but most certainly keep it traditional wood with no inversions or tricks added.

“Because in our collective minds, it will eat other roller coasters,” said Julie Freed, Lagoon’s director of special events.

Ride elements will include a vertical lift, inverted loop, diving loop, an underground tunnel, a water feature and a feature officials describe as a “beyond vertical drop.”

Officials also said there will be a secret thrill element that will not be revealed until the ride opens. The ride, which will be on the north side of the park, will have a design with a few jungle inspirations.

Lagoon officials made the announcement at a podium before a long, bright red, twisty section of track.

Visitors got a view of the construction of the future roller coaster’s base as the tap of hammers and the rumble and hiss of construction equipment floated through the air. Crews planned to have a section of tower up, after a crane slowly inched into place.

The rest of the tower should be up in the next few weeks.

“We’re excited that it is unique, one of a kind,” Freed said. “There’s not another in the world.”

This is the first roller coaster of its size that Lagoon has built from the ground up.

In the past, the amusement park purchased rides from overseas, particularly Europe.

Freed said the idea for the ride started years ago, but with the success of BomBora, which underwent a similar in-house project, park officials knew they could undertake a coaster at the scale of Cannibal. Work on the ride started about five years ago.

The design of the ride is a collaborative effort between engineers from Germany and Lagoon’s own engineers and designers.

By not buying the ride directly from Europe, the ride involves more Utah businesses.

“It has been developed using local Utah supplies and vendors for about 75 percent of the coaster,” Freed said.

A company in Springville built the bright red section of track.

By producing the track in state, Cannibal will have longer sections, which mean fewer joints. Fewer joints mean a smoother ride.

Total cost of the ride is budgeted at about $22 million.

By making the announcement, Lagoon Advertising Manager Adam Leishman said the park hopes to end months of speculation. Officials wanted to officially make the announcement before the tower went up.

“It was really hard, there was a lot of speculation, a lot of it correct,” Leishman said. “We thought it would be the perfect time to let the cat out of the bag.”

The ride will be ready by the opening of the 2015 season on March 28.

To give more patrons a chance to try out the attraction, anyone who buys a season pass after Sept. 15, for the Frightmares season, can use the pass through the entire 2015 season, from March to October for $117.95 plus tax.

“This really will be an incredible coaster and we are so excited,” Freed said. “We feel it will hold its own against any roller coaster in the world.”

Grab a towel and slap on the sunblock, it’s time to hit the water! Thrill seekers will soon be able to submerge themselves in even more fun in the sun as Valleyfair announces a 2015 expansion of its Soak City Waterpark. New for 2015 is:

Breakers Pipeline features four tube slides where riders stand on a platform sixty-five-feet up. The platform falls out from underneath riders sending them through a series of drops, twists and turns.

Barefoot Beach, an interactive splash pad spanning nearly an acre. Features include multiple water play elements such as small slides, aim-and-spray water shooters, and multiple jets of streaming water that spray up from the ground and cascade down from overhead.

“This expansion will give guests a choice in how they enjoy Soak City Waterpark,” said Dave Frazier, Vice President and General Manager of Valleyfair. “Whether guests are looking for relaxation at Barefoot Beach or want to seek out thrills on the Breaker slide complex, the new Soak City Waterpark will appeal to every age and interest level.”

Construction on the project will begin fall 2014. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for access to exclusive area developments, updates, photos and more.

The expanded Soak City is set to debut spring of 2015. Soak City Waterpark is free with Valleyfair admission.

I don't know if Dorney could get Mantis. It has a pretty sizable footprint. Where would they put it?

I found this article that lists the available expansion acreage of some Cedar Fair parks. Dorney has the least available space of these selected parks, although 27 acres is nothing to sneeze at. That's quite a bit of buffer space. Notice the URC collab pic of Flight Deck(CGA) :)

Interesting to look at a comparison like that. Land available is something often discussed that I haven't seen much real data on. However...

Those figures on Kings Island can't be correct. The quoted numbers of developed acres and available for expansion acres don't add up to the total. Second, I can't buy that there are only 32 undeveloped acres left. The Beast may take up 35 acres, but how could the sum of all the rest of the park's perimeter woodlands equal less land area?

I don't know if Dorney could get Mantis. It has a pretty sizable footprint. Where would they put it?

I found this article that lists the available expansion acreage of some Cedar Fair parks. Dorney has the least available space of these selected parks, although 27 acres is nothing to sneeze at. That's quite a bit of buffer space. Notice the URC collab pic of Flight Deck(CGA) :)

Ironic that the picture of Flight Deck from CGA is used, but they are not on the list :)

Those are some nice numbers, but they don't tell the whole story. For instance, how many of those 459 acres at KD are ABLE to be developed for the theme park's use? I am almost certain this is the land that is currently bordering and possibly incorporated by the campgrounds south of the park. Let's say KD closed the campground tomorrow. Would they be allowed to clear cut all of that land to expand the theme park by Hanover County without a significant environmental impact study being conducted first?

Next, how feasible is it for the park to expand into that undeveloped land? Walkways would need to be expanded, plumbing and electrical extended, more groundkeeping/landscaping personnel would be needed. Even if they just built a coaster out there with the station area within the current boundaries,several aspects of the infrastructure would still need to be expanded outside of the current park boundaries.

Getting back to Dorney, the origin of this discussion, 27 acres is a good amount of land, but it does not say how that land is allocated. Is it a huge 27 acre plot? Is it a perimeter spread out say, 5 acres around the park? We are all aware that Dorney has to deal with one of the toughest planning commissions in the country regarding expansion. Would they really be able to get Mantis, a 151 ft (2nd tallest coaster at the park) B&M steel coaster with no sound reduction material currently installed, approved within what is most likely the current buffer zone? (I don't think anyone has any doubt that the ride is too large to fit any where within the current park footprint without some significant ride removal/relocation.) Especially if there has not been any current request on file.

MrPKI said:The quoted numbers of developed acres and available for expansion acres don't add up to the total. Second, I can't buy that there are only 32 undeveloped acres left. The Beast may take up 35 acres, but how could the sum of all the rest of the park's perimeter woodlands equal less land area?

You didn't quote any numbers (and your post appears at the end of a very long thread) but most of the land owned by KI is not usable. Most of it is creek beds that flow into the Miami River. The only flat land is what had been the old animal habitat behind Great Wolf.

You didn't quote any numbers (and your post appears at the end of a very long thread) but most of the land owned by KI is not usable. Most of it is creek beds that flow into the Miami River. The only flat land is what had been the old animal habitat behind Great Wolf.

I was just looking at the map (Google). I would assume they could also get rid of the dinosaurs and expand there, correct?

Plus, what about the land between Diamondback and Beast? And behind the water park? What kind of topography is there?

Rye Playland is expected to get a "record breaking attraction' from Zamperla. Maybe a Mega Volare flying coaster??? Just kidding, it's likely to be a flat. There are also other plans in the works for Rye (theming, preservation etc).

How come I don't see a bunch of screaming and yelling at the fact that Cedar Point is basically trying to sell the world a cheap upgrade as a new ride?!?!

I was hoping they were at least going to make it a bit taller/longer or add a new element in somewhere.. But the world has come to a point where even the General Public now knows enough to call Cedar Point out on this cheap trick.

For the record I LOVE Cedar Point and they've never done this before. This is more of a Six Flags St. Louis move to repaint an old coaster and change out the train and pretend like they've got something new for this season..

AT LEAST tell me they're taking out the first-drop breaks to make the first half of the coaster a tiny bit faster.

And PS - I'm the last member who loves stand-ups and who is a bit sad about this change.. Riddlers Revenge will always be on my most favorite list. Long live the Memory of old Mantis. You were my first Cedar Point roller coaster, I believe.

Our local news in Cinci announced it as a new ride "where Mantis was" and showed portions of the video. There was no mention of it actually BEING Mantis nor anything about it merely being a modification or new trains. I figured the news editor either wanted to keep it brief and simple, didn't know any better, or was not given any more accurate info in the press release... or felt that the GP wouldn't know enough or care about the difference, or just wouldn't understand.

RobLec said:... or felt that the GP wouldn't know enough or care about the difference, or just wouldn't understand.

I mean.. The GP is not a bunch of "retards", anybody who calls Cedar Point his/her home park will 100% know it's the same coaster. And most people who are returning visitors who have some interest in roller coasters would notice it too.

It's actually amusing how nowadays when you're waiting in lines for rides, sometimes you overhear just "regular" people talking about coasters they've ridden in other parks far away, remembering specific names and details.. The GP is getting smarter and smarter. I ALWAYS run into "regular people" who talk about having been to Cedar Point, talking about how Gate Keeper is still not as cool as Raptor, comparing the different Rocky Mountain coasters and the B&M Hypers, Wearing Leviathan shirts or I305 t-shirts.. It's nice to know that there's a growing interest in the world in amusement park rides.

So, what is the point of the animated POV if there were no change to the ride layout? Couldn't they have just recycled an old Mantis POV and photoshopped in some station railings, if they felt they needed to emphasize that the station is now floorless?

Disney Cali's Adventure's 'Luigi's Flying Tires' will be turned into 'Luigi's Festival of the Dance'. I hope that they aren't gonna be changed into something commonplace like bumper cars, or a normal spin ride, but wouldn't be surprised if they did unfortunately.

Morey's Piers is adding a Larson Flying Scooter ride next year - yet to be named. This one, like last season's new Wave Swinger, is on an elevated platform. That should make for an interesting ride experience.

The wave swinger's platform is 12 feet off the ground. I'd imagine this one is similar.

I also like the throwback to the former 'Kong' ride of Morey's Pier's past.

We'll just have to keep our fingers crossed for a wooden coaster in 2016.

Kentucky Kingdom isn't wasting any time on being ready for next year. The park has been closed 2 days and they already has a highly visible paint job of candy apple red being applied to the heartine loop and the top of the lift hill.

Hopefully we shall hear soon about the new trains to grace T3, and that they'll ride better then the originals.

California's Great America will be re-working their Kidzville area, and transforming it into Planet Snoopy.

For 2015, California’s Great America will expand and rebrand the Planet Snoopy kids area! The entire area known formally known as KidZville will be morphed into the expanded Planet Snoopy. The 3 new rides will include Joe Cool’s Gr8Sk8, Peanuts 500 and Snoopy’s Space Buggies!

Gr8Sk8 will be an interactive ride atop Snoopy’s giant skateboard with the feeling of going off the edge. Peanuts 500 lets racers zoom around the track and slingshot around the track ends, while Snoopy’s Space Buggies will lift astronauts into the air for a gravity defying lunar landing.

The 3 new Planet Snoopy rides will be introduced and be in place for opening day in 2015 when Great America begins its magical 40th season!

The park closest to me, Wild Adventures is getting a Flying Carpet flat (from Celebration City) named 'Jungle Rumble'. Good addition, but I certainly will not be heading across the state line to Valdosta anytime soon...

Just checked their Facebook page. Its definitely Old Town's Windstorm. No mention of the Wildcat. hopefully that means they're keeping it. Given what a great job they did on rehabbing it, hopefully the Windstorm will be a better ride.

Appreciate all of the updates guys. I haven't been on the old URC very much recently - at least not enough to post. But I did update the list today with the following rides, as well as a mention of what Adventureland Park has released thus far.

Just checked their Facebook page. Its definitely Old Town's Windstorm. No mention of the Wildcat. hopefully that means they're keeping it. Given what a great job they did on rehabbing it, hopefully the Windstorm will be a better ride.

Yep. It's the Windstorm from Old Town. The owner purchased it to expand their offerings. I think it's an excellent fit for the park. It'll ride different from Wildcat as it'll be one train and I hear that third drop is a doozy. I'm excited as the park is about twenty five minutes from me.

As for Wildcat, they have no intention on getting rid of it. The owner, Eric, has done pretty extensive rehab to it. They have actually rehabbed it so much that it runs a smidge faster than the other Schwarzkopf wildcat models still around.

His maintenance team is actually looking to further rehab the cars and put in a new brake run/control system as the current one stops abruptly/only allows two cars.

As long as the chain doesn't break, it's not going anywhere, anytime soon.

Although the Polercoaster in Orlando (Skyscraper) is likely to open in 2017, a psuedo POV/off ride (the type that I hate) has been released. I must say, it looks alot more thrilling than I expected it to be, with several crazy S&S special track sections (like El Loco) plenty of inversions, and a strong finish.

Ok, I'll be the one to ask the question. Where are the brakes? Because isn't a chance in hell that thing is come down that tower with all of that speed and momentum unchecked.

I agree, the layout does look a lot more exciting on film. What we get once the ribbon is cut, we'll have to wait and see.

Paul

+1

I was thinking the exact same thing. The convenient thrown in off ride views most likely masked the actual multi-brake POV experience. One of the reasons why I'm not a fan of the 'half POV and half off ride' videos.

This one slipped past me... but it looks like Knott's is the next Cedar Fair park to get an interactive dark ride.

Voyage to the Iron Reef looks very cool...

VOYAGE TO THE IRON REEF - SURFACING SPRING 2015

A spectacular new interactive 4-D attraction is coming to the Boardwalk at Knott's Berry Farm next year. Surfacing in spring 2015, Voyage to the Iron Reef adds high-tech fun for everyone.

Ever since construction crews finished expanding the Boardwalk pier in 2013, guests have happily enjoyed the many new attractions like Coast Rider and Surfside Gliders. But all that activity on the Boardwalk shores has reawakened a mystic lair in the depths below, filled with creatures who have risen up to wreak havoc on the classic So Cal theme park.

The Queen of the Kraken and her aquatic army have surfaced to feed on the steel of any attraction within their grasps. Their unquenchable appetite for coaster metal has turned these creatures into swimming mechanical monsters unlike anything ever before seen on the ocean floor. Only you can save Knott’s from the mysterious creatures that are emerging from the seas beneath the Boardwalk!

If you have what it takes to become a brave deep sea navigator, climb aboard the four-person submarine and embark on the four-minute gaming adventure into the Iron Reef. Equipped with your interactive freeze ray, aim for ballooning puffer fish, an iron clad octopus and hundreds of other menacing 3-D creatures to save Knott’s from a watery doom. You will be surrounded at every turn by enchanting underwater forests, disorienting ocean current tunnels, and mysterious mechanical wreckage that will be brought to life through high definition 3-D animation and other special effects.

The attraction reacts to your actions making each interactive voyage a different experience. In addition to battling the Queen of the Kraken and her hundreds-strong aquatic army, compete head-to-head with the other sailors in your submarine to see who can blast the most creatures.

Voyage to the Iron Reef is the centerpiece of an exciting 2015 at Knott’s Berry Farm. For project updates and park information, visit knotts.com or download the Knott's Berry Farm app for your smart phone. Join the conversation about the new attraction using the hashtag #KnottsIronReef on the Knott’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter page.

Man it has been a long time since I have been on here. And I know this isn't exactly a new coaster for the US but it still looks sweet. It is a clone of Manta but that is okay because I've never rode Manta where as most almost nobody in Japan has rode Manta. And this will be the first flying coaster for Japan.

Turbulence was the name of canceled "screaming squirrel" type coaster for Hersheypark. I was to have been built in the spot vacated by the Giant Wheel removal.

Glad it fell through, because it would have been a hideous sight in that area.

It would have been interesting how Hershey's current landscape would have changed had that ride been installed as planned. No Fahrenheit, no need to remove Canyon River Rapids (the wave pool could have went in the Frontier Chute-out location instead).

The ripple effect could have gone all the way up to Skyrush, but that should be discussed in a thread of its own.

I just noticed there's no mention of Canada's Wonderland additions for 2015. From their main website:

There's even more splash-tacular fun coming to our 20-acre water park! Typhoon, a thrilling new water slide featuring oscillating funnels and hairpin turns. For those looking for less thrills and more water, check out Splash Station, a wet and wild interactive children's play area.

I just noticed there's no mention of Canada's Wonderland additions for 2015. From their main website:

There's even more splash-tacular fun coming to our 20-acre water park! Typhoon, a thrilling new water slide featuring oscillating funnels and hairpin turns. For those looking for less thrills and more water, check out Splash Station, a wet and wild interactive children's play area.

Although the pov test video may make it seem slow at times, Fury 325 should be my favorite ride opening this year. It's just to big not to have it as #1. Wicked Cyclone, Cannibal, Thunderbird, Twisted Colossus, Impulse, SFFT's Batman, and BGW's coaster are also of great interest to me. Unfortunately, I basically just got back from most of those parks. I do plan on going to Colorado / Utah next year, so Cannibal along with the rest of Lagoon is in the works. I have been waiting as long as possible for a Ohio /Indiana / Kentucky trip because all the parks seem to have something in the works. I want to make the most of them; I don't want to go just before their new rides are ready. In other words, Thunderbird, T3, Twisted Twins, Rougarou, a new Mean Streak, or whatever else Cedar Point is planning for 2015 / 2016 will have to wait.
What are most likely going to be rides that I will catch as they open this year are Justice League: Battle for Metropolis at SFSTL and whatever interests me in Fireman's Landing at Silver Dollar City. I will be going to Worlds of Fun, SFDK, and California's Great America also. I doubt that I will get involved with new waterpark rides, a Larson Super Loop, or Planet Snoopy. I haven't been to Missouri since 2010, and missed out on Silver Dollar City anyway. I have never been to Northern California. These two "problems" make these trips more important than getting on the best new rides in their first year.

They didn't really make a big announcement about it, however they finally restored the path from Mardi Gras to Gotham. You can now cross past Fireball, without having to go all the way back out and past the train. Cuts out a few minutes of walking.